UNSIA Newsletter Issue 1, December 1997
ECA Launches the African Centre for Civil Society
An active, informed, and viable civil society is essential to the consolidation of pluralistic democracy and the promotion of sustainable development. Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) form a vital link between the diverse interests of the society and the governing structures. In Africa, there have been several factors militating against the growth and active participation of CSOs in matters of governance and articulation of popular interests: weak economic bases lending them to dominance by the elite; undeveloped organisational structures that hinder their effective participation in the democratic process; and the dominance of the state in the democratization process.
In accordance with the goals set out in the UN System-wide Special Initiative on Africa and the African Charter for Popular Participation, ECA with the support of key partners and in collaboration with stakeholders, has established the African Centre for Civil Society (ACCS).
The Centre, officially launched on October 24 will enhance cooperation among African governments and civil organisations by encouraging governments to institute an enabling environment for the growth of NGOs and CSOs and support the building of civil society capacity to develop innovative techniques necessary for strengthening democracy and preventing conflict. The Centre will offer on-going technical advisory services in such essential areas as: organizing and managing of NGOs and CSOs; forging effective policy and programme based linkages with donors; working with government policy-makers at local and national levels; networking with other NGOs at national, regional, and international levels; and managing information including dissemination and analysis.